Copper prices rose on Wednesday, extending their seven-week high, as some investors rushed to buy the metal after China signaled it might take more forceful steps to stimulate economic growth.

The most actively traded contract, for December delivery, rose 0.25 cent, or 0.1%, to settle at $2.4365 a pound on the Comex division of the New York Mercantile Exchange. This was the highest close since July 21.